Parents Info Pages

Waterproof Jacket and Trousers: The British weather can be a little wet. A full set of water proofs are, therefore, very useful for every age group. Scout Shops sell Scout water proofs from £12.50 for jackets and £10 for trousers, but you can find others elsewhere. (check the labels say waterproof - water resistant and shower proof don't mean the same thing).
Waterproofs made from special breathable fabrics are not worth considering until the Scout section at the earliest, but are an advantage for Explorer Scouts carrying out expeditions.
If you are buying a waterproof jacket, do not forget waterproof trousers as well!

Hiking Boots: Hiking boots are useful for most outdoor activities, not just hikes, as they provide stiffer and more stable footing than trainers. For Beavers and Cubs a mid cut boot should be suitable. Canvass boots are generally more comfortable and lighter than leather, but may not be as waterproof.
For Scouts and Explorer Scouts, and younger sections doing walking in the hills, hiking boots need to come above the ankle to offer ankle protection. For those doing a lot of walking look for a GoreTex or similar lining in the boot for extra waterproof protection.
Most people wear an extra pair of thick socks in their boots for comfort. If you are doing a lot of walking a pair of proper Hiking Socks make a huge difference, with extra padding around the toes and heel.

Sleeping bag: When using a sleeping bag in a tent you also need a sleeping mat or Karrimat to protect you from the cold ground. Basic foam sleeping mats costs just a few pounds.
Mummy sleeping bags, which are shaped to fit the body, are warmer than square bags. For most people a three season sleeping bag offers the best compromise of warmth and weight. A cotton, silk or pertex sleeping bag liner helps to keep the sleeping bag cleaner, and is easy to wash.

Knives: You do NOT need to buy a pen knife or similar. No one, except Scouts upwards who have been trained in the safe use of knives, should even consider taking a knife to any camp with them.

Torches: Useful for camps and nights away. Head torches, with straps which fasten the torch to your head, are the most convenient as they keep your hands free. Modern LED lights also provide good light with excellent battery life.

Rucsacs: A small day sack of around 20 to 30 litres is useful for all sections, to carry packed lunches and waterproofs. Look for padded shoulder straps, a waist strap and a cover over the main compartment entrance which will keep the rain out.
In the older sections, particularly Explorer Scouts, there are opportunities to go on two and three day expeditions. A good comfortable rucsac makes a big difference, and reasonable ones can be picked up from around £65. Look for one with an adjustable back which allows it to be adjusted as your son or daughter grows. Rucsacs for expeditions should be around 55 to 65 litres in size.

As a member of the Scout Association you can get 10% discount at certain shops, including Blacks and Millets.

Check with your leaders before you purchase new equipment as they can advise on what are the best products to buy.